Ten plots of fenced dump sites used in storing stolen crude oil and illegally refined petroleum products in Agbada Community, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State have been uncovered by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC).
Four persons including the gatekeeper and supervisor were arrested at the dump site which has 170 surface industrial tanks of 1,000 litres each and two metal storage tanks of about 5,500 capacity.
The site is said to be less than two kilometres from the Agbada flow Station operated by Heirs Oil and Gas.
NSCDC State Commandant, Michael Ogar who led personnel of the Command and journalists to the dump site, said the premises was uncovered by the Command’s Antivandal Unit following credible information.
Channels Television reported that Ogar expressed concern over the proximity of the dump site to the Agbada Flow Station, adding that a comprehensive investigation has been launched into the illegal business.
He also said that any building or site where illegal oil bunkering activities are discovered, would be sealed by the Corps and subsequently forfeited to the federal government.
When questioned by newsmen, the suspects arrested denied any involvement in crude oil theft. They claimed they are carrying out genuine business at the site.